On 17 February 2011, HM Treasury published their second major consultation paper on the new regulatory regime for financial institutions - 'a new approach to financial regulation: building a stronger system.' The consultation period is only 8 weeks – it closes on 14 April. The latest paper runs to over 100 pages of detailed explanation; it amounts to a full blue print for the new regime, which will be introduced next year.

Simon Morris has therefore produced an analysis of the consultation paper and the new regulatory regime, as we now understand it. This highlights the main points for regulated firms and provides his insight into all the key areas.

To read Simon's report, please click here.

Simon's report explains the new institutions (which will replace FSA) and their roles.  These are the FPC (the Financial Policy Committee of the Bank of England), the PRA (Prudential Regulation Authority – a subsidiary of the Bank of England), and the newly named FCA (Financial Conduct Authority - until recently called the CPMA).  Simon looks at topical issues, such as the proposed new powers of the FCA to ban products or limit their distribution for up to 12 months and to announce that it has commenced disciplinary action against a firm.  The report also looks at other new developments, such as the enhanced competition role for the FCA and the approach to the insurance sector and to consumer responsibility.

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The original publication date for this article was 22/02/2011.